Chelsea retain Robert Sanchez as goalkeeping overhaul looms

Chelsea confirmed that first‑choice goalkeeper Robert Sanchez will stay for the upcoming pre‑season. He will be joined by Belgian Mike Penders, who spent last season on loan at Strasbourg. The club still needs a third goalkeeper after agreeing to let Filip Jorgensen and Gabriel Slonina depart. Penders told Voetbalkrant from Belgium’s World Cup camp that he will start pre‑season at Chelsea and aim to prove himself in training. His loan spell at Strasbourg gave him experience in a top‑flight environment. The move aligns with Chelsea’s plan to bolster the position ahead of the new campaign. Academy option Teddy Sharman‑Lowe is the leading candidate for the third‑choice spot. After six positive months at Bolton, he attracted interest from Championship clubs. His recall from Bolton came after Jorgensen required surgery for mid‑season fitness problems. Chelsea’s sporting directors will oversee the restructuring together with head coach Xabi Alonso. Goalkeeping head Ben Roberts continues to hold significant influence over the selection process. Owner Todd Boehly and co‑owner Clearlake Capital will also be involved in the broader strategy, while Strasbourg must find a replacement for Penders in France.